By Laura K. Springer, Th.M., Ph.D. with Jeff Barnhart
It is all too easy for differences to come between us. Language, culture, preferences, and generational priorities can make it difficult to see one another through the eyes of grace. In the context of this difficulty, Jesus commands us to love one another. Loving one another has an extraordinary outcome, for as we welcome and give ourselves to one another, those who see us will know that we are followers of Jesus.
Welcoming. The welcoming expected of us in Scripture is both an attitude of the heart and action of the body. When we think of fellow Christians who are different, do we think of them first as those who do not like the music we like or talk the way we talk? Or do we think of them as fellow believers, children of the same Father, and followers of the same Jesus? When we meet them on a Sunday morning or in the local coffee shop, do we greet them with a warm smile or do we pass by without any acknowledgment? These small actions and the feelings behind them make a difference.
Giving ourselves. Jesus gave himself for us, so giving ourselves for one another is not optional. But it can be hard. Giving of ourselves means figuring out how to connect with those who are not like us. It means using skills that we may not have developed. It means going deeper than we are comfortable with. But there is good news: Jesus taught us how to give of ourselves by giving his life for us and sending the Spirit to help us. He has made it safe to take a chance on one another, honoring our differences while worshiping our one Lord.
If we are to glorify God in this world by being his church, we must work at loving one another. We must acknowledge our differences and see them as enhancements of our life together. We have Jesus in common, and he is sufficient. He is more important than any of our differences. Let us focus on him as he shows us how to welcome one another and give ourselves to one another as he welcomes and gives himself to us. He is the Head and Center of our life together, and he puts our differences to work to build his church for his glory.
Since Jesus has loved us, loving one another is not optional. Let's do this!
